sewing machine; case (general & multipurpose); needles (textileworking: needlework); instructions

Sewing machine in a wooden case. The machine is a 'Little Wanzer', made by the Wanzer Sewing Machine Company and patented in 1867. The machine is attached to a rectangular black-painted marble base. It has a nickel-plated needle bar cover, stamped with an inscription: 'WANZER / SEWING MACHINE / COMPANY LIMITED / GT PORTLAND ST LONDON / TIME UTILIZER / TRADE MARK / No. 138432 / PATENTED IN AMERICA GT BRITAIN / AND THE CONTINENT / MAY 16 & JUNE 17 1867'.

The machine is accompanied by a badly-torn instruction manual, a clamp, and two metal tins containing accessories and attachments including a foot, self-sewer, and several needles. The wooden case has a metal carrying handle on the top, and a sliding front. It has been roughly painted in yellow on the inside.

Used by Miss. Kirton to support her six children following the death of her husband.

object
MUSEUM NUMBER
1985.275
PLACE
COLLECTION
MATERIAL/TECHNIQUE
metal; marble; ceramic; felt; wood; iron; paint
CATEGORY
Anthropology: Ethnography
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